I have that tripod with a Manfrotto 486RC2 ballhead. I support a 50D w\300 F\4+1.4TC. I have carried this setup around the wood for several hours without much trouble. I am looking at another ballhead though as this one is a little tricky with my setup.

As for the tripod it is a little heavy but that makes it really stable. It adjust easily and stays locked in place well. I really like the foam on the upper legs as it cushions it pretty well for carryin of the shoulder. I don't think you would disappointed with it at all.

Its a good tripod. I use it with the tilt pan head that comes with it. Its fine, but am considering a second head as well.

Shooting fireworks side byside with my buddy who had the Manfrotto 055PROX, he commented it was obvious to him that the Slik was the sturdier of the two. And that's the Manfrotto that everyone raves about.

I've got two. They are plenty stable for my 6x6 Bronicasaurus, and will be more than enough for your light DSLR, so long as you don't go hanging any telescopes off the end.

There is one issue with these tripods - the nylon leg bushings are somewhat fragile. You can accidentally break them when extending the legs. About a year ago I was gently extending the middle segment on my newer tripod when the lower leg came off in my hand. Springs, bushings, and pieces of cracked plastic went flying. The tripod in question was never dropped or abused, and I don't make a habit of violently extending the legs. Strangely, my other DX700, years older, has survived significant abuse, including some spectacular tip overs and tumbles, without any sign of malfunction.

Also, take care to keep dust and sand out of the leg joints. I once had to push the older unit ahead of me through the sand when squeezing through a slot canyon. I was a bit surprised to find that the legs were nearly welded in place. A complete teardown was required to restore smooth operation.